ROBERT (BOB) KOBLANSKI

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ROBERT (BOB) KOBLANSKI
November 3, 1938 – December 27, 2020

Bob Koblanski passed away peacefully on December 27, 2020 with family by his side.
Bob was predeceased by his father and mother Alex and Emily; siblings Anne, Bill, Rose and Nell; and mother-in-law Irene Mlodzinski.
Bob leaves to mourn his loving wife of 60 years Maureen; brother Allan; children Kristen Lynch (Gerry), Colin, Joel (Glenda), Dale (Chad) and Jamie (Audrey); grandchildren Riley, Riel, Marina, Kara, Brandon, Connor and Emily; great-grandchildren Connor, Derek and Reya; and brothers; and sisters-in-law Lynda Pisa (Frank), Charlie Sciberras, Norman Bukoski (Barb) and Dianne Frost (Brian).
Bob was an excellent hockey player, playing first for the Winnipeg Monarchs, then the Winnipeg Junior Rangers. He was called up to the pros by the New York Rangers twice, but ultimately chose to remain home in Winnipeg. Later he played for the Melrose Eagles (aka the 'Whispering Doves') in the Winnipeg old timer's league, and on tournament trips to the U.S. and across Canada. Bob was a great teammate on and off the ice.
Always a hard worker, in his teens he got a job at Purvis Motors where he was introduced to the VW Beetle and his lifelong infatuation with Volkswagen began. Bob also met Maureen when they were in their early teens and they were married in 1960 at St. Alphonsus Church.
In the 70s Bob joined the service department at Auto Haus, moved into sales, then co-owned Gran Turismo Motors on Nairn Avenue before returning to Auto Haus, where he worked in sales until he retired in 2013. Bob was truly excited to put people into cars that they loved. Known affectionately by his nickname 'Beetle Bob', he developed longstanding connections with his customers and their families, some of whom he served for generations. Upon his retirement, Bob was recognized as one of the all-time leaders in North America in VW sales.
Bob's love of children extended beyond his own and children naturally gravitated to him. His smile, twinkling blue eyes and generosity extended to many, but he had a special place in his heart for his nieces and nephews.
It was a bit of a surprise to everyone when, at 70 years of age, Bob adopted and became instantly inseparable with his beloved toy poodle Dino and later, teacup poodle #2 Seamus. Dino joined him in his car, on the back of a bicycle that Bob modified to fit him, and even on a motorized scooter for a time.
With Bob it was always a good time for a drive. In the summers Bob and Maureen went on camping trips with the kids. He loved nothing more than a quick trip to Lockport or Selkirk for dinner, or a longer journey across the U.S. to spend a few months wintering in Mesa Arizona.
Never a loud man, in character and personality Bob was larger than life. Whether it was due to his lifelong practice of performing small acts of kindness, or his gentle nature - wherever Bob went he made a lasting impression on people. Many benefitted from his gifts of groceries, yard work, repairs, or small loans. He donated winter clothing, food and pet supplies. He gave people rides to and from work or important appointments at any hour of the day or night. Bob always had the energy and made the time to help others, putting everyone ahead of himself.
Bob will forever be remembered as a kind, generous, sweet and thoughtful man who was quick with a smile, kind word, and before it became fashionable, a warm hug.
Bob's family especially wishes to thank the nurses, doctors and staff of both Concordia Hospital, and St. Boniface Hospital for their care and treatment over these many years, right up until his recent passing. Thank you for treating our dear Bob (and us) with such kindness and compassion.
Bob, we wish you love and light, peace, and a well-deserved rest. You're our heart and our soul, our inspiration to be better, and the essence of what's good in all of us. We will never, ever forget you Papa, you will be with us every second of every day.
Cremation has taken place, and there will be no funeral (at this time). In the meantime, Bob's family kindly requests that his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by visiting his tribute page at EthicalDeathCare.com. A photo-biography, as well as memories and stories published by those who knew him, are available there.
Gifts, in lieu of flowers, may be made in Bob's name to Agape Table, or Concordia Hospital Foundation.

ETHICAL DEATH CARE
Simple Cremation & Life Celebrations
204-421-5501 – EthicalDeathCare.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 02, 2021